My entry for China Open wasn't sent: Jwala Gutta

She chose to remain mum all these days and despite the Delhi high court stay on the Badminton Association of India’s decision, Jwala Gutta is not ready to rejoice.

She has got a reprieve after the BAI threatened her with a life ban for alleged misconduct during an Indian Badminton League match in August, but the 30-year-old knows the road ahead is long.

Never criticised

“I never had any issues with anyone. I’ve never criticised but voiced my opinions as a senior player. If the BAI makes it personal, it’s not my problem. After all that I’ve achieved, they really can’t question my credentials,” a tired but feisty Jwala told HT on Friday evening.

“They haven’t made another player to replace me but still they are trying to stop me. Ashwini (Ponnappa) and I are the defending Commonwealth Games champions. Is the association then ready to forgo the prospect of a medal for personal agenda?” she asked.

“It’s been going on for a long time now. But this time I’ve taken it personally. It’s my career. Even after they dropped me from the national squad, I was ready to bear the expenditure for tournaments in Europe.”

It’s learnt that the BAI sent an email to the organisers of the Denmark Open on Wednesday after the court allowed Jwala to participate in upcoming tournaments till the disciplinary authority takes a final decision on the issue.

But Jwala has no idea whether she’ll get to play in Denmark yet. “The BAI hasn’t responded yet,” she said.

The tournament website still states Jwala and Ashwini have given a walkover to China’s Xiaoli Wang and Yang Yu.

No China Open?

Jwala and Ashwini, who were set to rekindle their partnership in Denmark, wanted to play the French Open, Bitburger Open and tournaments in China and Hong Kong.

“Our entries for China haven’t been sent,” Jwala added. The Super Series meet is scheduled to be held from November 13.